Archives For March 2007

All month long we’ve been working on how to be a better friend. We’ve learned when to offer advice (and when not to) and how to be a better listener. But, what advice should you offer a friend going through a devastating loss or crisisÃ¢â?¬Â¦.or should you just listen?

When a friend is struggling with something like divorce or the horrendous loss of a child, or perhaps even a debilitating illness, it’s hard to know what you possibly do or say to offer support and comfort. Continue Reading…

When a friend is struggling with something like divorce or the horrendous loss of a child, or perhaps even a debilitating illness, it’s hard to know what you possibly do or say to offer support and comfort.

Sometimes the only thing we can do is to just show up! That may mean showing up in person at the front door, sending a heartfelt note, or leaving a voice mail or text message. When an individual is suffering, either physically or emotionally, it’s surprising how much effort others often take to avoid them. Excuses are made like, “It’s too painful to see them,” or “I won’t know what to sayÃ¢â?¬Â¦I’ll just cross the street now to avoid an awkward moment.” “I don’t want to make them feel badÃ¢â?¬Â¦, etc.” Continue Reading…

Have you ever had a conversation with a friend and, as you’re talking, you sense that she’s stopped listening because her eyes seemed to glaze over? Or, perhaps the “glaze” is a bit more obvious, as she glances at her watch, over your shoulder, or around the room. It’s hard to deepen a connection with someone who rarely listens. Continue Reading…